One day riding with my papaw, we turned the corner heading to the house, and the horses got very excited. They knew this was the last leg of the day. This was the race to the finish line /barn. My grandfather’s horse did not like to lose. And my horse didn’t want to let him win.

Papaw’s hat flew off as he and Tony took the lead; his voice trailed off…”Hold on!”

I held on tight. It was all I could do. Bert (my horse’s name) was not about to listen to a word I had to say.

It was a thrill. A scary one–but a thrill all the same. Tony won the race, and Bert was close behind. They obediently stopped once inside the breezeway of the old red barn.

It’s one of my favorite memories.

Sometimes life is like that. Sometimes it takes off in a direction or speed you don’t want it to go, and you just have to hold on. Hold on tight.

Kind words. I humbly say, thank you.

Andy – your writing is so beautiful! What a stunning gift you have and thank you so much for sharing it with us. You truly inspire me and seem to write what I need in the moment.

- Esther

"I have the privilege of calling Andy a close and dear friend. We met several years ago and discovered we were both writers. From that point on our hearts have been united in God. Andy is not just a skilled writer but a woman after God’s heart and that’s what makes both her writing and speaking effective and powerful!"

- Sandra Chambers, Wilmington, NC

I truly enjoy your posts and your perspectives. Thank you so much for sharing your amazing talent with us. We can tweet it, email it, pin it, facebook it and continue the sharing!

- Rhonda

"My dear friend, as always, your insightfullness astounds me. Thank you for all you give us to contemplate, it is appreciated. Yours in Christ, J"

- J. Miller, Wilmington, NC

Thank you so much for your inspiration, stories, and your amazing gift to teach/preach. We have enjoyed meeting you! ~ Julie and Jenna (Mom and daughter attending women's retreat in Portland, Maine.)

I have been following you since the night you came and spoke at Brandon Christian Writers. We talked about growing up as a military brats, the similar places we had lived, etc. I don’t comment often, but I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate your writing and being with you on our faith journeys.

So often, I feel like you write just what God wants me to hear or study and pray about. I want to confirm for you that your writing does make a difference. Thanks!

- Marsha Stephenson

"My sister and I attended the conference at MAG in Ohio. It was a blessing to us both, and Tina is totally enjoying the gift Bible that she won. May God bless you."

- Mable Mason, Ohio

"You have always conveyed God’s word in a way that touches my heart and has been known to even penetrate my head! I love you Andy…keep up the good work! "